By Brendan Dacey
Arnold Hall, the newest addition to the SCAD campus, is currently being developed for additional classroom space. The building, which was once Arnold Junior High School, is located between 35th and Bull streets. Since its construction in 1922, it has seen many people and undergone many changes, but the changes happening now are perhaps the most radical.
Since 1979, SCAD has been a staple in the preservation of Savannah’s rich architectural heritage, including the numerous abandoned historic public schools. The tradition began in 1986 when SCAD purchased the Henry Street School and named it Henry Hall, which was recently renamed Eckburg Hall. While the original name wasn’t preserved, the historic school building was, and it now houses the SCAD fashion program.
Since that first acquisition, SCAD has purchased and restored many of the abandoned school buildings around Savannah. Pepe, Anderson and Wallin Halls are a few examples of buildings renovated by SCAD. All three of these buildings are historic schools that were designed by architect Gottfried L. Normann in the late-18th century.
Arnold Hall will be SCAD’s first building seeking sustainable or green design with regards to its renovations. It is expected to receive a gold rating in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) from the United States Green Building Council. The project not only preserves and makes use of another historic school building, but it will also meet high environmental standards.
The new Arnold Hall will provide more classroom space, relieving buildings like Crites Hall of some of the liberal arts courses as the population of the college continues to grow. The new equally environmentally friendly and historic Arnold Hall will be opening its doors to students in the fall.
